Leeds Cathedral: The Arts & Crafts Gem of the City Centre
Discover Leeds Cathedral’s unique Arts & Crafts beauty and serene spiritual atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
Leeds Cathedral, also known as Saint Anne’s Cathedral, is a striking early 20th-century Catholic cathedral located in the heart of Leeds city centre. Celebrated for its unique Arts & Crafts architectural style, it features stunning stained glass windows, intricate sculptural details, and a grand pipe organ. Serving as the mother church of the Diocese of Leeds, it offers a serene atmosphere for worship and reflection, welcoming visitors year-round without an entry fee.
A brief summary to Leeds Cathedral
- Cathedral Chambers, Great George St, Leeds, LS2 8BE, GB
- +441132454545
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-6:15 pm
- Tuesday 7:45 am-6:15 pm
- Wednesday 7:45 am-6:15 pm
- Thursday 7:45 am-6:15 pm
- Friday 7:45 am-6:15 pm
- Saturday 10:30 am-7 pm
- Sunday 8:45 am-12:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekday mornings for a peaceful experience with fewer crowds.
- Check the cathedral’s website for Mass times and special events like organ recitals.
- Respect the quiet atmosphere and dress modestly when attending services.
- Explore the bell tower during special open days if you are physically fit and wear appropriate footwear.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take a bus to Leeds city centre, with frequent services stopping near Millennium Square, a short 5-minute walk to Leeds Cathedral. Bus fares range from £2 to £4 depending on the route, and services run every 10-20 minutes during the day.
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Train and Walk
Arrive at Leeds Train Station and walk approximately 10 minutes through the city centre to reach the cathedral. The route is mostly flat and accessible, suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from Leeds Train Station to the cathedral takes about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £5-£10. Drop-off is possible near Great George Street.
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Walking
If already in Leeds city centre, walking to the cathedral is easy and takes about 5-10 minutes on flat, paved streets. The area is pedestrian-friendly and wheelchair accessible.
Leeds Cathedral location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Leeds Cathedral
An Architectural Masterpiece in the Heart of Leeds
Leeds Cathedral, officially the Cathedral Church of St Anne, stands prominently on Great George Street in Leeds city centre. Completed in 1904, it is a Grade II* listed building designed by architects John Henry Eastwood and Sydney Kyffin Greenslade. The cathedral is a rare and outstanding example of the Arts & Crafts movement applied to ecclesiastical architecture in the UK, combining neo-Gothic elements with handcrafted artistry. Its sandstone façade, elegant tower, and arched windows create a photogenic landmark admired by visitors and locals alike.Vibrant Interior Artistry and Spiritual Ambience
Inside, the cathedral reveals a compact but richly decorated space with a short, wide nave and two small transepts. The interior is bathed in colorful light from magnificent stained glass windows designed by Nathaniel Westlake, depicting biblical scenes that add both visual beauty and spiritual depth. Intricate stone carvings and sculptural details adorn the walls, while marble altars dedicated to various saints provide focal points for devotion. The absence of pews, replaced by wooden seats, and the distinctive grey and white striped ceiling contribute to its modern yet sacred atmosphere.Musical Heritage and Community Worship
Leeds Cathedral is renowned for its grand pipe organ, originally built in 1904 and restored in 2009, which often fills the space with powerful music during services and recitals. The cathedral serves as the mother church of the Catholic Diocese of Leeds, hosting daily Masses, prayer meetings, and special liturgical events. Its choir is highly regarded for performances in English and Latin, enriching the worship experience. The cathedral also welcomes visitors to light candles and find moments of peace and reflection within its tranquil environment.Historical Evolution and Significance
The site’s Catholic worship history dates back to the late 18th century with early missions and chapels serving Leeds’ Catholic community. The original St Anne’s Church, established in the 19th century, was demolished at the turn of the 20th century to make way for the current cathedral. This building was purposefully designed to fit the constraints of its city centre location, resulting in its distinctive layout and intimate scale. It remains a vital religious and cultural landmark, symbolizing the resilience and growth of the Catholic community in Leeds.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
Open daily with no admission fee, Leeds Cathedral invites visitors to explore at their own pace or join guided tours that offer insights into its architecture and history. The cathedral is wheelchair accessible via the Great George Street entrance, with facilities including restrooms and seating areas. Visitors are encouraged to dress respectfully and maintain quiet during services. Special events, concerts, and occasional bell tower visits enhance the visitor experience, often requiring advance booking or tickets.Artistic Details and Photographic Opportunities
The cathedral’s exterior and interior provide numerous photographic highlights, from the detailed stone façade and sculptural groups to the vibrant stained glass and impressive reredos inside. The bell tower offers panoramic views for those able to climb its narrow stairs. Photography is welcomed with respect for worshippers and ongoing services, making Leeds Cathedral a rewarding destination for cultural heritage enthusiasts and photographers alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Leeds War Memorial
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Tilly + Enzo
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Civic Hall
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Statue of John Harrison
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Honoring Leeds’ historic benefactor John Harrison, whose philanthropy and leadership shaped the city’s early growth and community spirit.
Holy Trinity Church
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The Talbot Hounds Fountain
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A majestic 19th-century fountain featuring four stone Talbot hounds, rescued from a lost Gothic mansion and now a cherished Leeds landmark.
Leeds Minster
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Temple Works
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AMT Headingley Rugby Stadium
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Headingley Enterprise & Arts Centre
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Headingley Carnegie Pavilion
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Seven Arts
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Chapel Allerton Spaces
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Explore the serene beauty of Chapel Allerton Spaces, a tranquil retreat in Leeds perfect for relaxation and community connection.
Chapel Allerton, Leeds
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Explore the vibrant Chapel Allerton, Leeds, where local culture, unique shops, and diverse dining converge in a charming community atmosphere.
Willow Tree
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Experience the tranquility of Willow Tree in Leeds, where nature meets relaxation, perfect for tourists seeking a serene escape.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Electric Press
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Historic Leeds landmark transformed into a vibrant hub for dining, nightlife, theatre, and events in the city’s cultural heart.
Leeds City Museum
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Discover Leeds’ rich heritage and natural wonders in a historic museum with free entry and engaging exhibitions for all ages.
The Light the Headrow
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A vibrant city-centre complex in Leeds combining shopping, dining, bowling, cinema, nightlife, and a hotel in one dynamic destination.
The Carriageworks Theatre
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Historic carriage manufactory transformed into a vibrant theatre hub at Leeds’ Millennium Square, blending heritage with diverse arts and community spirit.
Whistle Punks Urban Axe Throwing Leeds
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Urban axe throwing meets craft cocktails in the heart of Leeds city centre.
Millennium Square
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Leeds' award-winning civic square transforming with world-class culture, festive magic, and year-round celebrations.
Leeds Art Gallery
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Discover British modern and contemporary art in Leeds’ historic gallery with free entry, dynamic exhibitions, and the stunning Victorian Tiled Hall Café.
Nelson Mandela Gardens
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Urban sanctuary honouring a global freedom fighter, where symbolic sculpture and thoughtful plantings inspire reflection.
Kirkwood
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Support life-enhancing care through sustainable shopping at Kirkwood Charity Shop in Leeds, a hub for community and compassion.
Tingley park
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A peaceful green haven in North Leeds offering nature, community events, and scenic walks just minutes from the city centre.
Outdoors Chess Boards
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Free outdoor chess in the heart of Leeds city centre—where strategy meets community.
The Merrion Centre
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Leeds' enduring retail landmark blending major brands with independent character.
Leeds Town Hall
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Discover the architectural beauty and cultural vibrancy of Leeds Town Hall, a historic landmark hosting concerts and events in the heart of the city.
Dortmund Square
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A bustling urban square in Leeds city centre, famed for the iconic Barrel Man statue and its cultural link to Dortmund.
The Core
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A vibrant Leeds city centre shopping destination blending retail, dining, and fitness under one roof.
Essential places to dine
Fire Lake Grill House and Cocktail Bar, Leeds
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Stylish city-centre grill house and cocktail bar serving smoky Josper-grilled meats and creative drinks in a vibrant Leeds setting.
Estabulo Rodizio Bar & Grill - Leeds
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Authentic Brazilian rodizio dining in Leeds city centre, with endless grilled meats, vibrant atmosphere, and a fresh salad bar in The Light shopping centre.
Almost Famous Leeds
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Vibrant urban burger spot in Leeds city centre, known for juicy creative burgers and lively, graffiti-filled atmosphere.
Fleur Restaurant and Bar Leeds
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A vibrant fusion of British, Asian, and Middle Eastern flavors set in a stunning floral-themed Leeds city centre restaurant.
Miller & Carter Leeds Light
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Savor expertly grilled British steaks in a stylish, welcoming setting at Miller & Carter Leeds Light, a city centre hotspot for steak lovers.
Turtle Bay Leeds
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Experience bold Caribbean flavours, vibrant cocktails, and lively vibes at Turtle Bay Leeds in the heart of the city centre.
Gaucho Leeds
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Experience premium Argentinian steaks and vibrant South American flavors in an elegant Leeds city centre setting.
Sukhothai Restaurant
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Experience authentic Thai cuisine and vibrant atmosphere at Sukhothai, Leeds’ flagship restaurant with over 200 dishes and stylish dining spaces.
San Carlo - Leeds
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Experience authentic Italian elegance and vibrant dining in the heart of Leeds with San Carlo’s luxurious menu and stylish ambiance.
Ibérica Leeds
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Experience authentic Spanish tapas and wines in the elegant, historic setting of Leeds’ Hepper House.
The Oxford Place
0.3 km
Leeds’ only 100% gluten-free restaurant offering a cozy atmosphere and a diverse menu with vegetarian and vegan delights.
Bar Soba Leeds
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Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere of Southeast Asian street food fusion in Leeds city center.
Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Leeds
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Authentic Italian flavors and vibrant Amalfi Coast charm in the heart of Leeds city centre.
Gusto Italian
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Experience vibrant, contemporary Italian cuisine with fresh ingredients and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Leeds city center.
Tattu Leeds
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Experience contemporary Chinese cuisine and artistic elegance in the heart of Leeds city centre at Tattu Leeds.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Digital Shop
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Explore unique furniture and decor at Digital Shop in Leeds, where style meets quality in a charming shopping experience.
Crown Jewels Wax Melts
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Explore Crown Jewels Wax Melts in Leeds for exquisite artisanal wax melts, candles, and unique jewelry—perfect souvenirs from your travels.
The Works
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Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Leeds’ Merrion Shopping Centre, inspiring creativity for all ages.
Gems Leeds
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Trendy ladies' boutique in Leeds' St Johns Centre, famed for chic sets and coordinated fashion finds in a lively city shopping hub.
Pop Boutique
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Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique retro treasures at Pop Boutique, Leeds’ beloved destination for curated vintage style from the 50s to 90s.
Open Lifestyle Store
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Discover stylish, quality men's fashion in the historic charm of Leeds’ Thornton's Arcade at Open Lifestyle Store.
Celeb Boutique
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A compact Bond Street boutique in Leeds offering trend-led partywear and statement pieces in an intimate, high-impact shopping setting.
Grand Arcade
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Discover Leeds’ historic Victorian arcade, a vibrant hub of independent shops, vintage cafes, and iconic clockwork charm.
The Yorkshire Soap Company - Leeds
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Discover handmade soaps and bath luxuries in a magical Leeds boutique blending artisan charm with Yorkshire craftsmanship.
Montblanc Boutique Leeds
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Urban Outfitters
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Discover quirky, unique fashion and creative homewares at Urban Outfitters Leeds in Trinity Shopping Centre, a vibrant hub for youthful style and culture.
Cow Vintage
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Yellow Sunrise
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Anthropologie
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Tomorrow Store
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Below Stairs
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Be At One - Greek Street Leeds
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Lost & Found Leeds
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North Bar
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Leeds’ original craft beer pioneer offering an eclectic selection of beers and cocktails in a quirky, cosy setting since 1997.
Blind Tyger
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Leeds' clandestine cocktail den: prohibition vibes, rare spirits, and inventive mixes in a candlelit hideaway perfect for intimate evenings.
Dirty Martini - Leeds
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Leeds' glamorous cocktail den where bespoke martinis, plush vibes, and late-night DJs craft unforgettable nights on King Street. Indulge in happy hours and bottomless brunches amid opulent surrounds. (162 characters)
MOJO
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Leeds' rock 'n' roll dive bar: killer cocktails, guitar anthems, and late-night grit since '96. Arm yourself for unpretentious Northern Quarter revelry.
Mean-Eyed Cat Bar Leeds
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Deep South dive bar shrine to Johnny Cash: free pizzas, dice-rolling free drinks, cocktails till 4am in Leeds' party heart.
Headrow House
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Leeds' multi-floor gem in a historic mill: unpasteurized beers, grilled seasonal feasts, rooftop skyline views, and live music beats.
Whitelock's Ale House
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Leeds' oldest ale house since 1715: Grade II*-listed Victorian splendor, real ales from Yorkshire taps, and hearty local grub in a hidden city yard.
Green Room
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The Alchemist Trinity
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Be At One - Boar Lane Leeds
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Lively Leeds city centre cocktail bar with 100+ drinks, daily happy hours, plush booths, and a spacious outdoor terrace.
Smokestack
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The Maven
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Popworld - Leeds
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Home Nightclub Leeds
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PRYZM
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The Key Club
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The Lab Nightclub Leeds
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The Warehouse
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Disco Stu's
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Pulse-pounding beats and sticky-floored euphoria on Vicar Lane—Disco Stu's delivers unfiltered Leeds nightlife with affordable drinks and all-night energy.
The HiFi Club
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Leeds' underground gem for live music, comedy stardom, and late-night grooves—independent vibes since 2000.
ULTRA
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Experience Leeds’ vibrant nightlife at ULTRA, where electrifying beats and dynamic dance floors create unforgettable late-night memories.
The Space
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Dive into Leeds' basement beats at The Space, where funky house and urban rhythms fuel non-stop dancing till dawn in a sleek underground haven.
Wire
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The Backroom
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A chic speakeasy-style nightclub in Leeds with handcrafted cocktails, eclectic music, and vibrant weekend nightlife beneath a historic railway bridge.
Baracoa Luxe Bar
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Glamorous Call Lane haven blending luxe cocktails, beer garden chills, and pulsating club nights in Leeds' vibrant heart since 2010.
SAFARI AFRIQUE
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A compact, high‑energy late‑night club on Assembly Street serving bass‑driven nights and lively weekend crowds.
Quadrophenia Night
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Rev up for mod anthems, live ska-soul bands, and 60s film vibes at Leeds' ultimate Quadrophenia tribute night—pure energy and rebellion on the dancefloor.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Arts & Crafts
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly